Xterra - Shocks help nose dive?

[jktowhere]

So a 04 Xterra is my DD. I am not all that happy with the ride right now. I'm at 101k on it, so I am thinking the shocks and steering stabilizer need to or could stand to be replaced.

The issue, and I know this happens with xterra's because I can see other hit the brake and have the issue, are nose diving when braking, the steering wondering and the ride just seems really all over the place. Am I right thinking the shocks will help because really, of all the suv's I have owned, this feels the worst and almost uncomfortable the way it nose dives. If so what do I replace the stock with? It's all stock minus a front bumper.

 

[Slicky72]

Bilsteins . I don't even run a front swaybar with them on my rig.

 

[davidshourd]

new shocks and maybe give your torsion bars a couple cranks to stiff things up a bit. dont forget an aligntment when you are done. the 04' back models suffer from some front end steering issues. they tend to wear a little faster than they should and results are a "Squirly" or loose steering.

 

[mortonm]

Bilsteins . I don't even run a front swaybar with them on my rig.

Definitely

Just installed the bilstein HDs on my 2001 and the difference was astounding. (Still had the factory shocks)

 

[jktowhere]

Well, lets start with the shocks, thanks guys. I hope this will work because I am losing faith in this truck and I think its just me being quick to panic. What are the part numbers?

 

[mortonm]

Well, lets start with the shocks, thanks guys. I hope this will work because I am losing faith in this truck and I think its just me being quick to panic. What are the part numbers?

Take a look at my build thread. Recent post has some pictures of my install along with part numbers

FYI the HD rears require removal of the rear sway bar but in these xterras they don't do much and its removal is not noticeable on road and provides better suspension articulation off.

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/79780-Mortonm-s-2001-Xterra-Build

 

[Silver dude]

I'd recommend stiffer torsion bars. especially if you have a front bumper. Otherwise the front end can seem wallowy and soft with the additional weight. I'd start at the shocks though. Dollar per dollar they make the biggest difference in ride quality.